

The Bill Simmons Podcast
The Ringer
HBO and The Ringer's Bill Simmons hosts the most downloaded sports podcast of all time, with a rotating crew of celebrities, athletes, and media staples, as well as mainstays like Cousin Sal, Joe House, and a slew of other friends and family members who always happen to be suspiciously available.
Episodes
Mentioned books

190 snips
May 19, 2025 • 2h 6min
OKC Ends Denver, "Whaddya Do" Second-Round Losers, and Knicks-Pacers Predictions With Ryen Russillo
Ryen Russillo, a sharp sports analyst known for his insightful takes on basketball, joins the conversation. They dive into OKC's stunning Game 7 victory over the Nuggets and discuss the implications for both teams. Ryen and Bill brainstorm trade scenarios for the playoff losers and predict the upcoming Knicks-Pacers matchup. They also reflect on the evolving dynamics of the NBA, highlighting player performances and the increasing parity in the league. A must-listen for any basketball fan!

82 snips
May 16, 2025 • 1h 5min
Denver Survives! Suddenly Dramatic Playoff Weekend Alert With Rob Mahoney
Rob Mahoney, an NBA writer for The Ringer, joins to break down the dramatic playoff action, particularly the Thunder vs. Nuggets showdown with standout Nikola Jokic. They highlight key performances, analyze strategic adjustments, and discuss the psychological dynamics at play. Predictions for the Celtics vs. Knicks matchup add tension, while insights into Timberwolves' chances further fuel the conversation. The duo also touches on their favorite recent TV shows, showcasing their playful banter as sports intertwine with pop culture.

146 snips
May 15, 2025 • 1h 54min
The Luke Kornet Game and Tatum’s Road Back With David Jacoby. Plus, WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert
David Jacoby, host of The Mismatch, joins the discussion on the Celtics' thrilling playoff performance against the Knicks and the concerns surrounding Jayson Tatum's injury. WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert shares insights on the league's evolution, including the impact of stars like Caitlin Clark and potential expansion efforts. The conversation also highlights changing fan engagement in live sports and the challenges of balancing growth with quality in women's basketball. This dynamic chat blends basketball fandom with the future of women's sports.

223 snips
May 13, 2025 • 1h 4min
Tatum Suffers a Devastating Injury, and Dallas Wins a Wild NBA Lottery With J. Kyle Mann and Joe House
J. Kyle Mann, an NBA Draft expert from The Ringer, and Joe House, a contributor and friend of Bill Simmons, delve into the aftermath of Jayson Tatum's injury and its impact on the Celtics' playoff hopes. They also dissect the dramatic NBA draft lottery, celebrating the Mavericks landing the top pick. Expect lively discussions on potential trades, including Luka Doncic and Anthony Davis, mixed with humor and camaraderie as they navigate the unpredictable world of basketball.

133 snips
May 12, 2025 • 2h 24min
The Floundering Cavs, OKC-Boston Gut Checks, and Lottery Karma Power Rankings With Ryen Russillo
Ryen Russillo, an insightful analyst for The Ringer and host of The Ryen Russillo Podcast, joins to dissect the Cavaliers' recent playoff struggles against the Pacers, questioning their future prospects and team identity. They also dive into the intense matchup between the Thunder and Nuggets, evaluating key performances under pressure. Plus, the conversation shifts to the amusing concept of NBA Lottery Karma, reflecting on team ethics and draft prospects, while balancing humor with serious sports insights.

130 snips
May 9, 2025 • 1h 48min
Best NBA Playoff Guys, Curry’s Value, and the Perplexing Celtics Meltdown With Wosny Lambre, Joe House, and Bill’s Dad
Wosny Lambre, an NBA analyst from The Ringer, and Joe House, a sports raconteur, join Bill's Dad, a lifelong Celtics fan, for a lively discussion. They break down the Warriors' struggles, emphasizing Stephen Curry's essential role. The trio humorously reflects on playoff dynamics, discussing the unpredictable performances of teams like the Celtics, who face challenges against the Knicks. Bill's Dad adds his veteran perspective on Boston's ups and downs while the gang ranks the best playoff players, mixing insightful analysis with plenty of laughs.

102 snips
May 6, 2025 • 1h 25min
A Celtics-OKC Panic Check, Plus the Towns/Porzingis Careers With Zach Lowe
Zach Lowe, an esteemed NBA analyst for ESPN, joins to dissect the thrilling playoff dynamics between the Celtics and OKC. They dive into Boston's struggles with missed shots and pivotal decision-making while highlighting standout performances from Jayson Tatum and others. The conversation shifts to the careers of Karl Anthony-Towns and Kristaps Porzingis, examining their unique paths, team dynamics, and playoff challenges. The duo wraps up with discussions on trades, draft dynamics, and reflections on past performances, all infused with Lowe's trademark insights.

75 snips
May 5, 2025 • 2h 20min
The Buddy Hield Game, Indy’s Dangerous, a Clips Collapse, and “Whaddya Do” Teams With Ryen Russillo
Ryen Russillo, an NBA analyst and podcast host known for his insights on ESPN, joins the conversation to break down the thrilling playoff games. They discuss Buddy Hield's explosive performance and analyze playoff strategies, focusing on defensive tactics and team dynamics. The conversation dives deep into the implications of player contracts and potential trades, especially regarding star players like Giannis Antetokounmpo and Joel Embiid. The dynamics of the Pacers-Cavaliers rivalry and the Clippers' struggles add to the excitement, highlighting the pressures of postseason play.

130 snips
May 2, 2025 • 2h 30min
A Clips-Nuggets Slugfest, Brunson’s Heroics, Best 2025 TV Shows and NBA Then and Now With Rob Mahoney, Joanna Robinson and Bob Ryan
Rob Mahoney, an NBA writer at The Ringer, breaks down thrilling playoff matchups, including the Knicks and Clippers, focusing on Jalen Brunson's crunch-time heroics. Joanna Robinson explores the anticipated TV landscape of 2025, discussing how shows like 'The Last of Us' are transforming viewer engagement. Legendary sportswriter Bob Ryan compares current players with past stars, analyzing the evolution of basketball dynamics and the implications of today's superstar performances.

68 snips
Apr 30, 2025 • 1h 51min
Playoff Jamal, Playoff Harden, Farewell Giannis, and a Draymond Deep Dive With Kirk Goldsberry and Zach Lowe
Kirk Goldsberry, a basketball analyst known for his data visualization, and Zach Lowe, an insightful ESPN writer, dive into the NBA playoffs. They discuss Jamal Murray’s standout performance and James Harden's struggles with the Clippers, raising concerns about the team's future. The duo also reflects on Giannis’s uncertain career path and analyzes Draymond Green's integral role with the Warriors. Expect rich insights on player dynamics and the implications of recent trades shaping the NBA landscape.